Few sign up for Worcester Housing Authority's 'Better Life'

Tuesday

Oct 15, 2013 at 6:00 AM

By Scott J. Croteau, TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF

WORCESTER — In response to a low number of families signing up for an incentive program that bumps them up on the waiting list for public housing, the Worcester Housing Authority has opened up closed waiting lists for those willing to take part in the program.

In April, the WHA started a pilot program that gave preference to up to 100 public housing applicants who were willing to take part in the "A Better Life" program. Applicants agree to work full-time, or go to school, while living in the federally subsidized public housing units in Great Brook Valley Gardens and Lakeside Apartments.

A range of intensive support systems such as case management and help with managing finances are part of the program. The intent is to have families in public housing become self-sufficient with the hope of them eventually moving out.

Letters about the program were sent to 559 families, but only 139 contacted the WHA. The WHA expects 37 families, fewer than 7 percent of those invited, to sign up. A second round of letters went to 391 families, with 20 to 30 expected to join the program.

"The good news is that we are making great progress with the families enrolled in our program," WHA Executive Director Raymond V. Mariano said. "We have helped parents find jobs, improve their credit rating and increase their skills. However, the challenge is to find enough families willing to do the hard work required by this program to fill all 100 slots."

Mr. Mariano said while waiting lists for the two locations are closed for two- and three-bedroom units, the lists will be opened up for anyone joining the "A Better Life" program. Joining would place those people on the top of the waiting list. Without the preferential treatment, families sometimes can wait a couple of years before moving into a unit.

Unfortunately, most people have told the WHA they would rather wait than join the program. Mr. Mariano said that is disappointing considering the program's goal.

"It is a benefit for both parties. They get an apartment, intensive case management and we do a range of things for them," he said. "In the end we have a more engaged tenant that is someone we want to hold up as a role model for others."